Multiple biomonitoring tests for environmental assessments

Abstract

The studies presented in this paper were aimed at testing, in order to extend the applicability of the methodology for approaching biomonitoring methods to new domains of activity by using bioindicators. The proposed and applied methodology aimed to add new complex studies, some of that not previously used, combining macroscopic, microscopic, and biochemical analyses of selected and exposed bioindicators compared to control bioindicators maintained under standardized conditions in the climate chamber. The change in the appearance and the biochemical composition of plants exposed to various pollutants are compared to those not exposed. The plants selected as bioindicators were: Nicotiana tabacum; Petunia hibryda, Ricinus communis, and Trifolium pratense. The experimental tests were carried out in three areas and the comparative evaluation of the air quality and of the biological effects generated was highlighted in direct correlation between the level of air pollution and the response of the tested bioindicators. In synthesis, under these conditions, it was concluded that the newly tested plants in these case studies, Ricinus communis and Trifolium pratense could be used to monitor air quality in the vicinity of industrially polluted areas.